HR Specialist
Position Summary
The HR Specialist will partner closely with the HR Business Partner to support the delivery of people initiatives and day-to-day HR support across the U.S. Business Services population. This role will serve as a key resource for managers and employees, helping to coordinate core HR processes, support employee engagement initiatives, assist with performance management activities, and contribute to the successful execution of HR programs and projects. This is an excellent opportunity for an HR professional looking to broaden their experience and develop toward a future HR Business Partner career path.
Key Responsibilities
Partner closely with the HR Business Partner to support Business Services leaders and employees across the U.S.
Provide day-to-day guidance and support on HR policies, processes, and programs.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with managers and employees.
Help identify employee concerns and partner with the HR Business Partner to support appropriate solutions.
Support the administration and coordination of performance management processes, including review cycles, goal setting, performance documentation, and follow-up actions.
Aid in preparing performance improvement plans.
Assist managers and employees with leave administration, accommodations, well-being matters, and other employee-related inquiries.
Conduct initial intake and fact gathering for employee relations matters, escalating issues appropriately and partnering with the HR Business Partner and Employee Relations team as needed.
Assist in coordinating employee engagement initiatives, including surveys, feedback collection, and follow-up actions.
Support talent and development processes, including career development discussions, talent reviews, and succession planning activities.
Help coordinate learning and development opportunities for Business Services employees.
Support the planning and execution of key HR initiatives, including performance reviews, compensation processes, promotions, onboarding, and talent programs.
Care for project plans, timelines, communications, meeting materials, and stakeholder follow-up activities.
Track action items and ensure timely completion of deliverables across multiple HR initiatives.
Prepare presentations, employee communications, and supporting documentation for HR programs and meetings.
Maintain employee records and HR documentation in Workday and other HR systems.
Assist with HR data audits and ensure data accuracy and integrity.
Care for employee lifecycle activities and support operational HR processes as needed.
Help streamline processes and identify opportunities to improve the employee and manager experience.
Qualifications
3-5 years of progressive Human Resources experience.
Experience supporting managers and employees in a professional services, legal, consulting, financial services, or similarly fast-paced environment.
Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Experience using Workday or a similar HRIS platform.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
Preferred
Experience within a law firm or professional services environment.
Exposure to performance management, employee relations, talent management, and employee engagement programs.
Demonstrated interest in pursuing a career path toward HR Business Partnering.
Success Factors
Strong judgment and professionalism.
Collaborative and team-oriented mindset.
Proactive approach with a willingness to learn.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Adaptability and comfort working in a fast-paced environment.
Commitment to delivering high-quality service and building trusted relationships.
Positive attitude, curiosity, and continuous learning orientation.
EEO Statement
Freshfields US LLP is proud to be an equal employment employer. Our policies and practices will be free from unlawful discrimination based upon race, color, ethnicity, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, citizenship, immigration status, ancestry, age, marital status, protected veteran status, military service, disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law. We strive to promote an atmosphere that encourages equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment.